The Ministry for Agriculture has announced that together with the Public Abattoir and the Paola Local Council, the event "Platt fil-Pjazza - Paola" is being organised to celebrate traditional Maltese food, provided by farmers and ranchers, among others.
This event will feature entertainment, traditional foods, and drinks for whole families. It aims to put a spotlight on the value of Maltese food heritage, as well as on the culinary and gastronomic practices that one can adopt to shape a more sustainable future.
Platt fil-Pjazza will be held on Friday, 19 September 2025, from 7:30pm onwards, at the Antoine De Paul Square in Paola.
One can expect to find stands with fresh meat, fruit, and vegetables, plus other products from local cooperatives and organisations such as the Xirka Produtturi Nagħaġ u Mogħoż and the Pig Breeders Co-operative Society (KIM). Among these, the Xirka has just achieved Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status like Gozitan Ġbejna; this was noted as "an important step that further highlights the quality and authenticity of this distinctive Maltese product" by the Agriculture Ministry.
The Paola Basilica will be open to the public throughout the event, allowing visitors to see the renovation work done on its portico. Visitors may enjoy a unique view of the town square and the ongoing activity from the portico.
Agriculture Minister Anton Refalo said that "an activity like this shows how best practices in processing and marketing can unleash the full potential of our locally grown products." He said that this is being done by working together and making it easier for farmers and producers to bring distinctive, high-quality products to consumers, while promoting responsible consumption and reducing waste.
This activity is tied with Malta's Sustainable Development Action Days for 2025; these days carry the theme "Your Actions, Our Future." Such holds true in the efficient use of resources in meat processing and the reduction of waste through certain practices. Such sustainable practices lead to a reduction in emissions generated by food waste, thus contributing to climate action.
The Ministry for Agriculture added that such activities contribute towards the agricultural sector's economic growth by strengthening the processing of meat and by-products, and by supporting small producers and cooperatives.
The Chief Operations Officer of the Public Abattoir, Pierre Farrugia, said that this year, the abattoir is expanding its range of pork by-products. This emphasises making best use of by-products and less popular cuts, he added.
"By finding new uses and markets for these resources, we are helping to build a stronger and more resilient food system that benefits everyone, from producers to the wider community," Farrugia said.
Paola Mayor Jason Silvio, together with fellow councillor Darren Lynch, discussed the importance of such activities being held at the heart of Maltese towns and cities while thanking the Ministry for Agriculture. Mayor Silvio said that such events continue to foster a sense of appreciation for farmers and ranchers among residents.